The political arm of the Congressional Black Caucus endorsed James Talarico, a Democrat facing headwinds with voters of color after his primary win over a Black candidate, in a Texas race that could determine Senate control. He faces Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton in November. Democrats haven't won a Texas Senate seat since 1988, and Trump carried the state by nearly 14 points in 2024. But Democrats see an opening in Paxton's scandals and growing disapproval of the president.

"Black Texans deserve a senator who will show up, listen and fight for their communities — and James Talarico will be that," said Representative Gregory Meeks, chairman of the caucus's PAC. Talarico pledged $25 million for Black voter outreach and supports restoring federal oversight of state election laws under the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. He also backs funding for H.B.C.U.s, addressing Black maternal mortality, and Black-owned businesses.

"Texas has the largest Black population of any state," Talarico said. Paxton's campaign did not respond. Black and Latino groups accuse Paxton of suppressing nonwhite turnout. Talarico defeated Representative Jasmine Crockett in March, but a June poll showed 12% of Black voters viewed him very unfavorably.